Hands on: See & touch science & history at Raven Hill

Our View

April 25, 2011

Tucked away in the north woods is a place where learning is a fun, hands-on affair.

Raven Hill Discovery Center in rural Charlevoix County has been teaching science, history and art to young people for the past 20 years. The nonprofit organization is the destination for thousands of young people and their families every year. Although the center hosts countless school field trips and scouting programs, it is much more than a place just for kids.

Raven Hill offers classes, exhibits and activities for all ages to learn, create, grow and play. Hands-on explorations, both indoors and out, delight children and adults, and Raven Hill's library of reference is used by teachers throughout the area.

The regional science and technology center is located on 157 acres on Fuller Road, near the intersection of East Jordan-Boyne City and Pearsall roads, sitting adjacent to 140 acres of protected land called Raven Ridge Nature Preserve.

There is no other place in Northern Michigan where kids can see and touch snakes, turtles, lizards and spiders; rocks, shells, furs and skulls; experiment with magnets, manipulate prisms in a laser beam, climb inside a kaleidoscope, weave on a loom, ride a generator bike to turn on lights, and play musical instruments including drums and a marimba.

History can be explored at the outdoor Exploring Beyond Jurassic Park and the Ancient World exhibits. Other outdoor offerings include a barrier-free tree house, Earth Tones Music Garden, a labyrinth, wetlands boardwalk and the Art and Architecture Smallville featuring mini houses in all artistic mediums and styles.

Raven Hill has something for the young and the young at heart. During the school year, Raven Hill is open on weekends by appointment, and in the summer from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday, noon-4 p.m. Saturday, and 2-4 p.m. on Sunday. The $8 admission fee is a small price to pay for all of this fun and education.

The center was started 20 years ago by Cheri and Tim Leach, who have since put their heart and soul into the facility.

"It was founded in 1991 by myself and my husband, Tim, as a place to experience informal learning and make connections. We think it's a better way to learn," Cheri said.

Plans to celebrate Raven Hill's 20th year include a free open house event from noon-4 p.m. on Sunday, May 1. The new Warren Loranger Great Room and Christopher's Art Corridor will be unveiled at this time.

"I look back at all we've done and get excited about 20 more years to come," Cheri said.

And, so do we.

More information is available at www.ravenhilldiscoverycenter.org online or by calling (231) 536-3369.